Nancy Marie Zaloga, age 75 of Highland, IL, died Wednesday, March 5, 2025, in Highland, IL.
She was born on Saturday, September 10, 1949, in Highland, IL, daughter of Vincent and Lucille (nee Welchlen) Schwarz.
On Saturday, June 19, 1971, she married Thomas Vaughn Zaloga at St. Gertrude’s in Grantfork, who survives.
She was a member of the VFW Women’s Auxiliary Post 5694 in Highland, IL and St. Anne’s Altar Society in Troy, IL. She was also a member of the Highland’s Women Club and was the current treasurer.
Nancy was born in Highland, IL and grew up on the Schwarz family farm in Grantfork. She graduated Highland High School in 1967, then started working at St. Joseph’s Hospital for more than 20 years. Nancy worked in administration at several companies throughout her lifetime. She was a proud mother and wife who enjoyed time together laughing with family and friends.
Nancy was an energetic and fun-loving woman. Her pastimes of pulling pranks on her neighbors and sharing comedic memes are activities she frequently enjoyed. Nancy loved decorating her home and hosting events. Her holiday spirit was inspirational, and she always looked forward to Halloween every year wearing her hat and broom (and warts) to celebrate the occasion.
Her compassion for people was beyond measure, always caring for and thinking of others. Her energy for life kept her busy, never passing up an opportunity to take a girl’s trip or spend time with her nieces. Nancy enjoyed watching sunsets over the lake with Tom on their front porch. They spent many nights talking and taking in the scenic views and wildlife from there. As an all-around nature enthusiast, she especially enjoyed growing flowers and watching birds. She collected all types of antiques, and her collection of watering cans grew faster than any plant ever could. Nancy made her beloved dogs, Brandie and Bubba, “Facebook famous” and her kind heart and witty personality will be missed by all.
Survivors include:
- Husband – Thomas Vaughn Zaloga, Highland, IL
- Son – Michael N. (Kimberli) Zaloga, Highland, IL
- Sibling – Harold J. Schwarz, Highland, IL
- Sibling – Shirley Schumacher, Aviston, IL
- Sibling – Betty Rutz, Highland, IL
She was preceded in death by:
- Father – Vincent R. Schwarz
- Mother – Lucille Martha Schwarz (nee Welchlen)
- Son – Nicholas “Nick” T. Zaloga died 6/18/2014
- Sibling – Richard L. Schwarz
Arrangements are being handled by Spengel-Boulanger Funeral Home in Highland, IL.
Visitation will be held from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM on Wednesday, March 12, 2025, at Spengel-Boulanger Funeral Home in Highland, IL.
Funeral Service will be at 8:00 PM on Wednesday, March 12, 2025, at Spengel-Boulanger Funeral Home in Highland, IL, with Fr. Pat G. Jakel, Pastor, officiating.
Memorial contributions may be made to the family.
